Commentary Prepared by Dr. Julia Lenaghan, Ashmolean Museum

A 141 K
Pirate; Lysikrates Monument

Marble (Pentelic)
Frieze
H 25.4 cm
Greece, Athens, in situ
After 335/34 BC; Late Classical

Preservation:
The surface of the relief is heavily worn. Almost the entire body of the figure is lost on the original frieze as at one point a hole was cut through it. The legs and most of the torso on the cast are a later restoration.

Description:
The relief shows a human figure crouching next to a tree. He is depicted in three-quarter profile facing to the left, sitting on rocky terrain. His left hand rests on the ground, the right arm is stretched forward with the open palm facing upwards. His right leg is lifted from the ground (the foot being grabbed by a satyr further to the left).

Discussion:
The pirate depicted here desperately tries to resist a satyr, who attempts to drag him into the sea further to the left. He has raised his hand in a gesture of submission, pleading for mercy. The tree behind him marks the dry land. For a full discussion of the monument see A 141a.

Bibliography:
H. F. de Cou, "The Frieze of the Choregic Monument of Lysicrates at Athens." (AJA 8 1893) 21-22 figs. 24-26 pl. 12a The most thorough discussion of the frieze so far. Excellent photographs of the original frieze, as well as documentation of early drawings and casts documenting a much better state of preservation. Extensive bibliography.
H. F. de Cou, "The Frieze of the Choregic Monument of Lysicrates at Athens." (AJA 8 1893) 42-55 Discusses earlier studies and drawings of the monument and the composition of the frieze.